How to Get High-End Style on a Low-End Budget.

Thrifting is my first love. I get an adrenaline rush when I pull into the parking lot. The sketchier the better. If it’s dirty and messy I’ll be in there for hours. I LOVE finding unique and high-end pieces at a fraction of the cost they would normally be. My frugal heart lives to tell people I thrifted things that they assume I paid top dollar for. You do not need to spend a lot of money to get the look you want!

If you are like me and you covet all things fancy but hate to spend the big bucks, here is a little guide on how to thrift high-end style on a low-end budget:

Flip it Over.

You can find lots of authentic vintage pieces when you are rummaging through thrift stores. The tricky part is that lots of items are made to look vintage now. The first way to check to make sure something is vintage is to flip it over. Does it have a made in china sticker? A piece of felt covering its bottom? A large seam running up the entire length of a glass? Not vintage.

If you did find something vintage it will likely be weighty and solid. It will probably be stamped, marked or engraved on the bottom and felt-less. A mirror of frame will often have exposed nails holding the back together and brown kraft looking paper sealing up the back.

Zone In.

While you are parusing through thrifts think of your favorite stores or designers. Try looking through their lens. This always helps me find great pieces. Could I see this on a shelf at my favorite store? Would Chris Love Julia put this on their counter? Catch my drift?

Frames!

Frames and mattes are expensive but they are a dime a dozen when thrifting. Forget about the picture inside. Frames are the easiest things to repurpose and you can find them at thrift stores in all shapes and sizes. If you like the frame you can replace the matte and the picture. You can also paint the frame to match any idea you may have. You can easily design a gallery wall with thrifted frames for pennies on the dollar!

Check for More!

If you find a cup or plate you love CHECK for more. Lots of time things get carried around by other shoppers and placed in weird spots. Most dishes and cups come in sets. Look for friends before you leave.

Girl, Check Yo Lamps!

In the market for a lamp? Make sure to plug it in and check it with a lightbulb before you purchase. Most stores will have a bulb in one of the lamps so you can test it out. If it doesn’t turn on can you see why? Maybe it needs a new socket? You might be able to fix it with a simple lamp kit from your local hardware store. All Lamps can be painted. Do not forget that. Sure It’s ugly now, but what could it look like?

I have not paid over $12 for a lamp in years!!

Take it out of Context.

Sometimes people have trouble taking items out of their thrift store context. If you see something you think is great. Imagine it in your home. In a magazine. Not on a thrift store shelf!

Remember it will be moving in with you and living amongst your things! If it’s cool at the thrift store, it’s probably really cool at home.

Go Often.

Thrifting is hit or miss. If you are looking for pieces to add to your home you have to go often and try out new places! Some days you will find absolutely nothing. Others days you will load up a truck!

You can even thrift online now with Facebook marketplace and craigslist!

If You Love It, Buy It!

If you find something you love, buy it. Immediately! Inventory moves so fast through thrift stores. I have seen people fight over items! If you see it and you fall for it- pull the perforated tag. COMMIT. It’s yours now!

Here are some of my favorite Thrifted items to date:

You do not need to spend a lot of money to make your home look exactly the way you want. You can and will find amazing one of a kind pieces when you start thrifting!

If you aren’t sure where to start here are some ideas:

Try out Goodwill– they have the lowest prices!

Try out Habitat for Humanity Restore (my personal favorite) a little pricier, but they have higher standards and only accept things in good condition. I find a lot of great antiques here!

Things to look for: frames, vintage champagne glasses, mirrors, baskets, vases, lamps, art, trays, sconces, brassware, candle sticks, fabric, well made or vintage furniture!

Now ready. set. THIRFT!!